Food Tours 101: What To Expect on a Sur La Table Culinary Journey

When it comes to learning about food, culture, and history, there’s no substitute for hands-on experience. Culinary excursions offer a unique and immersive way to gain knowledge and skills that go far beyond what you can get out of a cookbook or a traditional cooking class. You can learn about the history and traditions behind each dish, understand the importance of regional ingredients, and gain practical cooking skills from local experts. More than just tasting delicious food, food tours offer a deeper connection to the places you visit and the people you meet, creating lasting memories and friendships.

This year, indulge in a truly unique experience with Sur La Table’s brand-new Culinary Journeys, developed in partnership with Academic Travel Abroad Inc. These immersive culinary tours are designed to satisfy your appetite for both travel and gourmet delights, offering unparalleled opportunities to explore and savor the best each region has to offer.

Discover a few reasons why you’ll want to book your next culinary adventure, where you can travel to with Sur La Table, and what you can expect on your trip.

Ready to embark on a culinary adventure of a lifetime? Explore our upcoming trips, get detailed itineraries and learn about the unique experiences awaiting you at Sur La Table Culinary Journeys.

Book Your Journey Today

Why Choose A Food Tour With Sur La Table

Choosing a culinary tour offers a multitude of benefits that enrich your travel experience. Here are a few key reasons why these excursions are an exceptional way to explore the world:

• Cultural immersion: Experience the local culture intimately by being in the specific location where the food originates. You’ll understand the unique traditions, techniques, and ingredients that shape each region’s cuisine.
• Convenience: All the planning and logistics are taken care of, allowing you to focus on enjoying the experience without any stress.
• Authentic learning: Enhance your cooking skills with new techniques and recipes learned from local experts in their own environment. Plus, gain a deeper understanding of the history, agriculture, and economics that influence the region.
• Expert guidance: Benefit from the expertise of seasoned chefs and local guides who provide insightful commentary and personalized instruction.
• Exclusive experiences: Create unforgettable memories through immersive activities and exclusive opportunities – many of which aren’t available to the public – that offer a deep connection to the places you visit.
• Solo traveler friendly: Our tours offer a built-in group of fellow travelers, providing companionship and shared experiences for those adventuring alone.
• Great for multi-generational travel: Our tours cater to diverse age groups, making them perfect for family bonding without the stress of coordinating activities. While we focus on wine experiences, travelers aged 12 and above can enjoy the journey.
• Local expertise and translation services: Our local guides are experts in their regions, offering in-depth knowledge and insights. Translation services are included, ensuring you fully understand and appreciate every detail of your experience.

Foodie Destinations To Explore

From the Italian coastline to the bustling streets of Tokyo, there are countless foodie destinations that top many of our bucket lists. That’s because food destinations are truly enriching experiences — each place offers a unique blend of local flavors and rich traditions that will deepen your appreciation for regional cuisine.

France has long been considered a top destination for food enthusiasts, offering a blend of history, diverse regional cuisines, and world-renowned culinary heritage. To kick off the series, Sur La Table is hosting Culinary Journeys during the fall in — you guessed it — France, paying homage to the founders’ inspiration for starting Sur La Table. Here’s a sneak peek of the culinary adventure to Provence and the French Riviera (Marseille, Biot, Côte d’Azur, Nice) that’s now booking for September 29 – October 6, 2024.

A Taste of Southern France: Provence and the French Riviera

Embark on an unforgettable culinary journey through the picturesque landscapes of Provence and the French Riviera. This exclusive trip offers a range of experiences that will immerse you in the culinary traditions and vibrant culture of French-Mediterranean Cuisine. Here are some of the highlights you can expect:

1. Exclusive food tours and hands-on cooking classes

   Throughout the journey, you’ll be treated to exclusive food tours at some of the region’s top spots. You’ll work your way through bustling markets, charming cafes, and renowned restaurants, learning insights behind traditional Provencal dishes and the exquisite cuisine of the French Riviera, as well as gaining a deeper appreciation for the local food culture.But tasting is just the beginning. You’ll also roll up your sleeves in hands-on cooking classes, led by skilled chefs who will teach you how to prepare authentic French dishes — like crafting the perfect bouillabaisse.

2. Behind-the-scenes experiencesOne of the highlights of this trip is the access to experiences that are typically off-limits to the general public. For instance, enjoy a private, before-hours tour of Maison Empereur, Marseille’s iconic heritage hardware store known for its broad collection of unique household goods, culinary items, and antiques. This exclusive peek behind the scenes will give you a deeper appreciation of the craftsmanship and traditions that shape the region’s culinary tools and techniques.
3. Cultural immersion and artisan workshopsLearn the intricate processes behind some of the region’s most famous exports. From watching sea salt being harvested along the French Mediterranean to exploring the traditional methods of Provencal textile production at the Souleiado Museum, these experiences not only enrich your understanding of the local economy but also your appreciation of the craftsmanship involved.

Looking Ahead To 2025

Exciting new destinations are on the horizon, too. In 2025, join us in the culinary capital of Paris, where you can explore world-renowned culinary arts and indulge in the finest pastries, cheeses, and wines. Or explore the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region and experience Bordeaux, renowned for its wine production, historic architecture, and vibrant culinary scene. We’ll also be leading a tour to the South of Italy in Puglia to discover the rich and diverse culinary traditions of this enchanting region. Each destination promises a unique and immersive experience that will deepen your love for food and culture.

What To Expect On Your Food Tour

Booking an international trip can feel daunting, but with Sur La Table, all the details are taken care of for you. Our Culinary Journeys are designed to provide you with a seamless and enriching experience from start to finish. Here is a quick overview to help you feel confident and prepared for your journey:

• Length: Culinary Journeys are 8 days, which includes your arrival day and welcome dinner as well as a farewell breakfast on your departure day.
• Pricing: Current pricing starts at $7,995 for double occupancy.
• Accommodations: You’ll stay at 4-star accommodations, which are included in the price of the tour and are centrally located for your daily excursions. You may choose either a single-occupancy or double-occupancy room.
• Group size: Space is limited to 25 travelers — big enough to meet a diverse group of people but small enough to be on a first-name basis with everyone.
• Airfare: Airfare is not included in the package. This allows you the flexibility to choose flight options that best suit your schedule, budget, and travel preferences.
• Itinerary: Each trip comes with a detailed itinerary, allowing you to relax and enjoy without the hassle of planning. While daytime schedules are full to maximize learning and exploration, evenings and some meals will be at your leisure.
• Hosts: You’ll have the expertise of Sur La Table host, ATA-hired travel director, and local guides.
• Booking: You can book your trip online, and a deposit is due upon reservation to secure your space on the tour. Deposits are refundable up to 50% until 120 days prior to departure. Your final balance is due upon receipt of your invoice, 90 days prior to departure.

Ready to embark on a culinary adventure of a lifetime? Explore our upcoming trips, get detailed itineraries and learn about the unique experiences awaiting you at Sur La Table Culinary Journeys.

Book Your Journey Today